Student Teams from Six Top Engineering Universities to Begin Prototypes

THORNTON, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTI), a developer of lightweight, flexible, thin-film photovoltaic modules, announced today the seven selected teams that will begin designing prototypes for the Ascent Solar Innovative Design Competition.

Teams from Boston University, Rochester Institute of Technology, San Diego State, Texas A&M, University of California, Berkeley, and University of Oregon were selected by a committee that included members of Ascent's executive and product development staff. In the next week, students will receive flexible solar modules and project funding courtesy of Ascent Solar.

The Ascent Solar Innovative Design Competition will last throughout the 2011-2012 school year and allows participating students and their professors to explore the transformational applications and uses for Ascent's flexible solar modules. Teams will compete by developing working prototypes of ground-breaking portable power applications, which are uniquely enabled using Ascent's lightweight, flexible photovoltaic modules.

"We appreciate the opportunity to work with talented students, from engineering schools across the country, who recognize the transformational aspect of our technology," said Ascent Solar President and CEO Ron Eller. "We are giving teams a chance to develop novel, real world applications for portable solar technology."

The teams with the top designs will receive up to $10,000 in cash prizes as well as potential future opportunities with Ascent. Find more information about the competition atwww.ascentsolar.com/competition.

About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.

Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a developer of thin-film photovoltaic modules using flexible substrate materials that can transform the way solar power generation integrates into everyday life. Ascent Solar modules can be directly integrated into standard building materials, commercial transportation, automotive solutions, space applications, consumer electronics for portable power and durable off-grid solutions. Additional information can be found at www.ascentsolar.com.